Air Operated Diaphragm Pumps

Diaphragm Pumps, one of the most commonly used pump types on the market today, are Positive Displacement Pumps that use two sets of internal diaphragms, constructed from PTFE or rubber, that work simultaneously to create pressure to push fluid through the pump.

All Tapflo Diaphragm Pumps use no-nut, clean-face diaphragms to ensure that no liquid can penetrate the diaphragm and are built with 70% fewer parts than other AODs on the market today. Some key benefits of using Diaphragm Pumps are:

• Self-priming capabilities, eliminating the need for external priming
• Handles corrosive, abrasive, viscous, and shear-sensitive materials
• No seals or glands, reducing the risk of wear and tear on common working components
• Can operate under dry-run conditions without damage
• Handles fluids containing solids or particles
• Steady and pulse-free flow
• Safe for hygienic applications
• Leak-free operation
• Explosion-proof options
• Air-driven and electrically driven options available
• CIP and SIP executions available

Common industries and applications of Diaphragm Pumps are:

• Chemical
• Surface treatment
• Water treatment
• Pulp & Paper
• Hygienic
• Food & Beverage
• Mechanical
• Print, Paint & Varnish

Yes, Diaphragm Pumps are self-priming. This means they can eliminate air from the pump and suction line, creating a vacuum that draws in fluid. This is advantageous when the pump is located above the fluid source or the supply may not be consistent.

Yes, most diaphragm pumps can run dry, which means they can operate momentarily without the presence of liquid through the pump.

When choosing a Diaphragm Pump for your application you must consider:

• What media will be pumped? Consider the chemical composition of the media you will be pumping – is it chemically neutral or corrosive, shear sensitive etc.
• What is the viscosity of the media you intend to pump? Consider viscosity limitations, shear sensitivity etc.
• Do you need to pump fluids containing solids?
• Is your environment or fluid explosive?
• Do you require self-priming?
• What flow rate and head does your application require?
• Do you require CIP/SIP?
• Will your pump be stationary or do you need it to be portable?
• What size pump do you require?
• Will your require additional accessories for your pump? e.g pulsation dampeners

Diaphragm Pumps commonly use:

• HDPE and PTFE: HDPE offers a superior wear resistance which is 6 – 7 times stronger than polypropylene (PP), offering greater mechanical strength. Polypropylene is a standard material used by most Diaphragm Pump manufacturers and often weakens over time when used with aggressive applications, which is why Tapflo offer HDPE. PTFE is a thermoplastic polymer which can handle the most aggressive chemicals, with a max liquid temperature of 100°C.
• Aluminium, Cast Iron, Stainless Steel: Our metals are best for viscous, chemically aggressive fluids & fluids containing coarse solids.
• Sanitary: Our sanitary range offers FDA and EHEDG-approved materials suitable for all fluids that are meant for consumption and cosmetics.

A Diaphragm Pump uses a flexible diaphragm to create a suction and discharge of fluids and is suitable for viscous and shear-sensitive fluids. Centrifugal pumps contain a rotating impeller that generates kinetic energy to move fluid through the pump. They are suitable for low-viscosity fluids and high-flow-rate applications.